Strip scale technology

ABSTRACT

A strip scale suitable for use in connection with high speed in motion weighing or other weighing applications. The scale has a base, a load cell, an intermediary member and a platform. Also disclosed are load cells for use with the scale, and systems for using the scales.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS, IF ANY

This application claims the benefit under 35 U.S.C. §119(e) ofco-pending U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/712,002,filed Oct. 10, 2012 and U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No.61/960,140, filed Sep. 10, 2013, which are hereby incorporated byreference.

37 C.F.R. §1.71(E) AUTHORIZATION

A portion of the disclosure of this patent document contains materialwhich is subject to copyright protection. The copyright owner has noobjection to the facsimile reproduction by anyone of the patent documentor the patent disclosure, as it appears in the US Patent and TrademarkOffice patent file or records, but otherwise reserves all copyrightrights whatsoever.

STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

Not applicable.

REFERENCE TO A MICROFICHE APPENDIX, IF ANY

Not applicable.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates, generally, to weighing systems, apparatusand methods. Particularly, the invention relates to a strip scale usedfor example to weigh vehicles or other articles while they are inmotion. The scale of the invention is particularly well suited forweighing of vehicles moving at high speeds over road ways.

2. Background Information

Existing technology in this field is believed to have significantlimitations and shortcomings.

All US patents and patent applications, and all other publisheddocuments mentioned anywhere in this application are incorporated byreference in their entirety.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention provides weighing apparatus and methods which arepractical, reliable, accurate and efficient, and which are believed toconstitute an improvement over the background technology.

In one aspect, the invention relates to a low profile strip scaleincluding a base for placement on a surface, a plurality of load cellsdisposed on the base, and a platform disposed over the top plate. Thescale may have one or more intermediary plates, elements, connectors,checking plates or flexures disposed between the bottom base and the topplatform.

In another aspect, the invention provides a scale comprising, a base forplacement on a surface, the base having a strip-like configuration, atleast two load cells communicatively connected to the base and arrangedin tandem with respect to the base, and a platform disposed over thebase, the platform being communicatively connected to the at least twoload cells.

In a further aspect, the invention provides An electronic strip scalefor use in in-motion weighing of vehicles or cargo passing over thescale, the strip scale having an elongated, thin geometry with a lengthof between 20.0-78.7 inches (0.5-2.0 meters), a width approximately2.0-6.0 inches (5.08-15.24 cm) and a height approximately 1.465 to 1.475inches, the strip scale being adapted to be embedded into a road, flooror the like, comprising: (a.) a base for placement on a surface, thebase having a strip-like configuration, (b.) six load cellscommunicatively connected to the base and arranged in tandem withrespect to the base, and (c.) a platform disposed over the base, theplatform being communicatively connected to the at least two load cells.

And in yet another aspect, the invention provides a method of weighingvehicles or cargo moving over a surface while the vehicles or cargo aremoving: a. providing an electronic strip scale having an elongated, thingeometry, comprising: i. a base for placement on a surface, the basehaving a strip-like configuration, ii. six load cells communicativelyconnected to the base and arranged in tandem with respect to the base,and iii. a platform disposed over the base, the platform beingcommunicatively connected to the at least two load cells; b. embeddingthe strip scale in the surface, whereby a predetermined portion of theplatform is exposed to sense the weight of the vehicle or cargo passingover the strip scale; c. passing vehicles or cargo over the surface andthe strip scale; and d. actuating the strip scale and sensing a weight.

The present invention is believed to involve novel elements, combined innovel ways to yield more than predictable results. The problems solvedby the invention were not fully recognized in the prior art.

The aspects, features, advantages, benefits and objects of the inventionwill become clear to those skilled in the art by reference to thefollowing description, claims and drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWING

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the strip scale of thepresent invention.

FIG. 2 is a front, elevation view of the scale.

FIG. 3 is a crossectional view of the scale taken along line 3-3 of FIG.2.

FIG. 4 is a crossectional view of the scale taken along line 4-4 of FIG.2.

FIG. 5 is bottom view of the scale.

FIG. 6 is a detailed view of the scale portion shown in FIG. 4.

FIG. 7 is a top view of the scale.

FIG. 8 is an end view of the scale.

FIG. 9 is an opposite end view of the scale.

FIG. 10 is a longitudinal crossectional of the scale taken along line10-10 of FIG. 7.

FIG. 11 is a detailed view of the portion of the scale shown in FIG. 10.

FIG. 12 is an exploded view of the scale.

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a first alternative embodiment of thestrip scale of the invention.

FIG. 14 is a front, elevation view of the scale.

FIG. 15 is a crossectional view of the scale taken along line 15-15 ofFIG. 14.

FIG. 16 is a crossectional view of the scale taken along line 16-16 ofFIG. 14.

FIG. 17 is top view of the scale.

FIG. 18 is a detailed view of the scale portion shown in FIG. 15.

FIG. 19 is a detailed view of the scale portion shown in FIG. 16.

FIG. 20 is a top view of the scale.

FIG. 21 is an end view of the scale.

FIG. 22 is an opposite end view of the scale.

FIG. 23 is a longitudinal crossectional of the scale taken along line23-23 of FIG. 20.

FIG. 24 is a detailed view of the portion of the scale shown in FIG. 23.

FIG. 25 is an exploded view of the scale.

FIG. 26 is a perspective view of a second alternative embodiment of thestrip scale of the invention.

FIG. 27 is a front, elevation view of the scale.

FIG. 28 is a crossectional view of the scale taken along line 28-28 ofFIG. 27.

FIG. 29 is a crossectional view of the scale taken along line 29-29 ofFIG. 27.

FIG. 30 is a bottom view of the scale.

FIG. 31 is a detailed view of the scale portion shown in FIG. 28.

FIG. 32 is a detailed view of the scale portion shown in FIG. 29.

FIG. 33 is a top view of the scale.

FIG. 34 is an end view of the scale.

FIG. 35 is an opposite end view of the scale.

FIG. 36 is a longitudinal crossectional of the scale taken along line36-36 of FIG. 33.

FIG. 37 is a detailed view of the portion of the scale shown in FIG. 36.

FIG. 38 is an exploded view of the scale.

FIG. 39 is a perspective view of a third alternative embodiment of thestrip scale of the invention.

FIG. 40 is a front, elevation view of the scale.

FIG. 41 is a crossectional view of the scale taken along line 41-41 ofFIG. 40.

FIG. 42 is a crossectional view of the scale taken along line 42-42 ofFIG. 40.

FIG. 43 is a bottom view of the scale.

FIG. 44 is a detailed view of the scale portion shown in FIG. 42.

FIG. 45 is a top view of the scale.

FIG. 46 is an end view of the scale.

FIG. 47 is an opposite end view of the scale.

FIG. 48 is a longitudinal crossectional of the scale taken along line48-48 of FIG. 45.

FIG. 49 is a detailed view of the portion of the scale shown in FIG. 48.

FIG. 50 is an exploded view of the scale.

FIG. 51 is an exploded view of a fourth alternative embodiment of thestrip scale of the invention.

FIG. 52 is a perspective view of the strip scale of FIG. 51.

FIG. 53 is a side view of the strip scale.

FIG. 54 is a top view of the strip scale.

FIG. 55 is a lateral or transverse crossectional view of the scale takenalong line 55-55 of FIG. 53

FIG. 56 is a detailed view of FIG. 55.

FIG. 57 is another top view of the scale.

FIG. 58 is an end view of the scale.

FIG. 59 is an opposite end view of the scale.

FIG. 60 is yet another top view of the scale.

FIG. 61 is a longitudinal crossectional view of the scale taken alongline 61-61 of FIG. 60.

FIG. 62 is a detailed view of the area “62” of FIG. 61.

FIG. 63 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a disc shaped loadcell for use in a strip scales shown in FIGS. 13-38 and 51.

FIG. 64 is a front, elevation view thereof.

FIG. 65 is a top view thereof.

FIG. 66 is a bottom view thereof.

FIG. 67 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a loadcell, a single ended, shear beam configuration, for use in the stripscales shown in FIGS. 1-12 and 39-50.

FIG. 68 is a front, elevation view thereof.

FIG. 69 is a top view thereof.

FIG. 70 is an end view thereof.

FIG. 71 is a front elevation view of a fifth alternative embodiment ofthe strip scale of the present invention.

FIG. 72 is an end view of the strip scale.

FIG. 73 is an exploded view, in perspective, of the strip scale.

FIG. 74 is another perspective view of the strip scale.

FIG. 75 is perspective view of a first embodiment of a load cell for usewith the strip scale of FIGS. 71-74.

FIG. 76 is an end view of the load cell of FIG. 75.

FIG. 77 is a front elevation view, broken to fit on the page, of theload cell of FIG. 75.

FIG. 78 is a perspective view of a second embodiment of the load cell.

FIG. 79 is an end view thereof.

FIG. 80 is a side elevation view thereof, broken for clarity.

FIG. 81 is a perspective view of a third embodiment of the load cell.

FIG. 82 is an end view thereof.

FIG. 83 is a side elevation view thereof, broken for fit.

FIG. 84 is a perspective view of fourth embodiment of the load cell.

FIG. 85 is a further perspective view thereof.

FIG. 86 is an end view thereof.

FIG. 87 is a side elevation view thereof, broken for fit.

FIG. 88 is a perspective view of fifth embodiment of the load cell.

FIG. 89 is a further perspective view thereof.

FIG. 90 is an end view thereof.

FIG. 91 is a side elevation view thereof, broken for fit.

FIG. 92 is a detailed view of a portion of the load cell from one endand at the bottom.

FIG. 93 is a top view of one embodiment of a gauging pattern on a loadcell.

FIG. 94 is a bottom view of the gauging pattern shown in FIG. 93.

FIG. 95 is a end diagram for another embodiment of a process of gaugingyet another embodiment of a load cell.

FIGS. 96A and B are compression side and tension side view of thegauging process of FIG. 95.

FIG. 97 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a base of the stripscale of FIGS. 71-74.

FIG. 98 is a top view of the base.

FIG. 99 is a crossectional view of the base, taken along line 99-99 ofFIG. 98.

FIG. 100 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a platform of thestrip scale of FIGS. 71-74.

FIG. 101 is a side elevation view of the platform.

FIG. 102 is a crossectional view of the platform taken along line102-102 of FIG. 100.

FIG. 103 is a top view of an embodiment of a top plate of the stripscale of FIGS. 71-74.

FIG. 104 is a bottom view of the top plate.

FIG. 105 is a side elevation view of the top plate.

FIG. 106 is a crossectional view of the top plate taken along line106-106 of FIG. 103.

FIG. 107 is a front elevation view of a sixth alternative embodiment ofthe strip scale of the invention, having a length substantially longerthan the embodiment of FIGS. 71-74, and further including a pair of loadcells.

FIG. 108 is an exploded view, in perspective, of the scale of FIG. 105.

FIG. 109 is an end view of the scale.

FIG. 110 is a detailed end view.

FIG. 111 is a perspective view of a seventh alternative embodiment ofthe scale of the invention.

FIG. 112 is a side elevation view of the scale.

FIG. 113 is a top plan view of the scale.

FIG. 114 is an end view of the scale.

FIG. 115 is a lateral crossectional view of the scale, taken along line115-115 of FIG. 112.

FIG. 116 is a longitudinal crossectional view of the scale, taken alongline 116-116 of FIG. 113.

FIG. 117 is an exploded view of the scale.

FIG. 118 is a perspective view of the first checking plate of the scale.

FIG. 119 is a top view of the first checking plate.

FIG. 120 is a side view of the first checking plate.

FIG. 121 is a top perspective view of an embodiment of a load cell foruse with the scale embodiment of FIGS. 111-120.

FIG. 122 is a bottom perspective view of the load cell.

FIG. 123 is a top plan view of the load cell.

FIG. 124 is a side view of the load cell, with interior structure shownin phantom.

FIG. 125 is a crossectional view of the load cell, taken along line125-125 of FIG. 123.

FIG. 126 is a detailed view of the load cell, taken at area—126—of FIG.125.

FIG. 127 is a crossectional view of a portion of the load cell taken atline 127-127 of FIG. 123.

FIG. 128 illustrates an embodiment of a strip scale of the invention inuse on a road for weighing vehicles in motion.

FIG. 129 is a plan view of the system.

FIG. 130 is an end view of the system embedded in a roadway.

FIG. 131 is a perspective view of a further alternative embodiment ofthe scale of the invention.

FIG. 132 is a top view of the scale of FIG. 131.

FIG. 133 is a side view of the scale.

FIG. 134 is an end view of the scale.

FIG. 135 is a crossectional view of the scale, taken along line 135-135of FIG. 133.

FIG. 136 is a detailed view of FIG. 135.

FIG. 137 is a detailed view of the section “137” of FIG. 136.

FIGS. 138-143 are sectional views of alternative embodiments of thescale base of FIGS. 131-137.

FIG. 144 is a sectional view of a further alternative embodiment of thescale base.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The scale of the present invention is suitable to weigh vehicles orother articles while they are in motion. The scale is particularly wellsuited for weighing of vehicles moving at high speeds over road ways.The scale may be used for example by embedding the scale in a roadwayeither during construction of the roadway or after construction byretrofit, and then weighing vehicles traveling at normal speeds over theroadway of for example of 35 up to 80 (130 km/h) miles per hour.Examples of vehicles include motorcycles, cars, trucks, buses and thelike.

FIGS. 1-12 show an embodiment of a strip scale 10 of the presentinvention. The strip scale 10 has an elongated, strip-like configurationwith a low profile. It may be placed on a surface such as a road or afloor, either directly or indirectly as part of a larger weighingsystem. The strip scale 10 may be used for static weighing, but it isideally suited for in motion weighing of vehicles or craft such as cars,trucks, aircraft, boats and other consumer, commercial, industrial,municipal or military articles or apparatus. The scale 10 is relativelylong and thin compared to known scales and very low profile. As is bestshown in FIGS. 1, 2, and 8-12, the scale 10 basically comprises a bottombase 11, a plurality of load cells 12, and a top platform 13. The base11 is placed on a support surface such as a floor, roadway or mountingarea of a floor or roadway 50. The base 11 is constructed of a strong,rigid material such as steel (preferably stainless steel) or aluminum(preferably 6061 aluminum). The platform 13 is preferably constructed ofthe same or similar material as the base 11. The load cell 12 is placedon the top surface of the base 11. Platform 13 is placed over the topplate 13. Top fastening screws 17 are oriented through apertures 18 a(threaded) of the platform 14 and apertures 18 b at one end of the loadcells 12 to connect the platform 14 to the load cells 12. Circular,washer shaped spacers 20 are disposed between the top of the load cells12 and the bottom of the platform 13. A pair of lower fastening screws30 a/b are oriented through apertures 31 a/b (threaded) of the base 11and apertures 32 a/b (threaded) at an opposite end the load cells 12 toconnect each load cell 12 to the base 11. Nuts 33 a/b secure theconnection. A spacer 34, with apertures 35 a/b, is disposed between thebase 11 and each load cell.

The strip like configuration of the scale 10, and the other embodimentsdescribed below, is at least three (3) times longer than it is wide, andpreferably between 17-22 times longer. The range of satisfactory lengthsand widths is 2.0-6.0 inches (5.08-15.24 cm) wide, and 20.0-78.7 inches(0.5-2.0 meters) long. Preferably, the scale is approximately 3.41inches (8.66 cm) wide and a length of 1.5 meters (59.0 in.), 1.75 meters(68.8 in.) or 2.0 meters (78.7 in). The scales are relatively lowprofile. A preferred height is approximately 1.465 to 1.475 inches(3.721 to 3.746 cm).

FIGS. 1, 2, 5, 10 and 12 show an embodiment of the base 11 having anelongated rectangular configuration with a predetermined length, widthand height. Base 11 has a flat bottom surface 40 and a substantiallyflat top surface 41. Recesses 43 of predetermined dimensions aredisposed in the top surface 41 of the base 11 for placement of the loadcells 12. An end portion 44 is disposed at one end of the base 11. FIGS.1, 2, 7, and 12 show an embodiment of the platform 13 having anelongated rectangular configuration with predetermined length, width,height and thickness. Platform 13 has top and bottom flat surfaces.Referring also to FIGS. 10 and 11, recesses 45 are disposed in thebottom surface of the platform 11 to accommodate the nuts 33. Referringto FIGS. 10-12, in the preferred embodiment, six (6) load cells 12 a-fare used. However, it is within the purview of the invention thatbetween one and ten load cells may be used. This embodiment of the scale10 uses single ended, shear beam load cells 12 oriented in-line witheach other in a tandem or end to end fashion. As is shown in FIG. 12,three load cells on one end of the scale 10 have their ends connected tothe base 11 in one direction (for example to the right and towards thecenter or mid-point of the scale—lengthwise) and the other three loadcells have their base connected ends in the opposite direction (to theleft and towards the center/mid-point).

FIGS. 13-25 show a first alternative embodiment of the strip scale 100of the invention. Scale 100 is also elongated, thin and low profile. Italso has a bottom base assembly 111, several load cells 112, and a topplatform 113. As is best shown in FIGS. 23 and 25, load cells 112 aredisposed a predetermined distance apart on the base assembly 111. Basesides 120 a/b are connected to the base member 121 along its sides,longitudinally. End plates 122 are connected at the end of the basemember 121. A center (side loading) strap 123 is disposed over the loadcells 112. A first (bottom) 124 and a second 125 checking plate orflexure are disposed on top of the center strap 123. First spacers 126a, b and c (side 1, center and side 2) are disposed on top of the secondchecking plate 125. End straps 127 a/b are disposed at the ends. Third,fourth, fifth and sixth checking plates/flexures 128, 129, 130 and 131are disposed on top of the first spacers 126, respectively. Secondspacers 132 a, b and c (side 1, center and side 2) are disposed over thesixth flexure 131. And platform 113 is disposed over the second spacerset 132. Each load cell 112 has a pair of washers 133 a/b centrallydisposed on its top, and a top load button 134 is disposed on thewashers 133 for connection to the center spacer 123. Referring also toFIG. 24, the load cells 112 are connected to the base member 121 viadownwardly oriented screws 140. And the platform 113 is connected to thelayer of elements extending downwardly to the center strap 123 byupwardly oriented screws 141.

FIGS. 26-38 show a second alternative embodiment of the elongated, lowprofile strip scale 200 of the invention. Scale 200 has a substantiallysimilar structure and function to that of scale 100 described above,except, as best shown in FIG. 38, that it has a single checking plate orflexure 228 disposed between lower spacers 226 a-c and upper spacers 232a-c.

FIGS. 39-50 show a third alternative embodiment of the elongated, lowprofile strip scale 300 of the invention. Scale 300 a base 311 and aplatform 313. Beam type load cells 312 are disposed in apertures 320 inthe base 311. Channels are preferably machined into the base to permitrouting of electronic cables between the load cells and a disposition ofa summing junction. Layer 350 is a sealing member preferably constructedof extruded silicone foam rubber material, with apertures 351 alignedwith the load cells 312. The apertures permit addition of a pottingcompound, for example a gel, during installation of the scale 300 in aroadway. Side members 355 are disposed lengthwise with respect to thescale 300. The side members 355 protect the scale 300 duringinstallation and use. Side members 355 are flexible to permit scaleoperation and are preferably constructed of a foam material. End plates355 a-d enclose the scale 300.

The internal foam member 350 compresses due to the force exerted by thepotting gel. The potting gel is largely incompressible but has a verylow durometer allowing it to deform and transfer the force to thecompressible foam. The foam must be easily compressible. One commonmeans to quantify the compressibility is to report the force required tocompress the foam by 25% and report the results in pounds per square inor PSI. Suitable foams would have compressibility in the range of 3-20PSI. Foams in the ranges of 5-15 or 8-12 PSI are common. The foam mustalso have a closed cell structure to prevent water and other fluidabsorption. This is very important when designing scales for use in coldclimates with alternate thawing and freezing cycles. The must alsomaintain the flexibility at low temperatures. Many otherwise suitabletypes of foam become less flexible at cold temperatures. The foam mustalso be relatively inert and chemical resistant. Cross-linkedpolyethylene foam is low cost and commonly used for thermal insulation,industrial gaskets, packaging and in flotation equipment. It has lowmoisture permeability and high buoyancy. Silicone foam rubber is alsogood for the application although priced higher. In some applicationsdepending on scale dimensions and weather constraints, PVC/NBR,polyethylene, neoprene, urethane, EPDM, and other synthetic foam rubbersmay be suitable. The foam is ideally inserted to fill the space betweenthe scale base and platform. This may be 0.05 up to 1 inch. Typicalthickness of the foam is 0.25 to 0.75 inches. The foam may be compressedslightly under the platform but not more than 25% and ideally in therange of 5-15%. The width of the foam is generally from the side of thebase to close to the load cells. This may be in the range of 0.25-0.5inches. It may be important to leave a small gap between the load celland the foam to allow gel to flow between the load cell and foam. Thefoam also plays an important role in keeping the gel within the scaleduring pouring and the curing time.

The external layer of foam 355 separates the scale platform and bodyfrom the road surface. During installation, the scale is placed within acutout slot in the road way. After careful placement the void betweenthe scale and the roadway is filled in with a potting compound that istypically a type of epoxy, polyurethane or cementitious product. Thepotting compound cures adjacent to and directly to the foam and to thecement or asphalt road. The foam allows the scale platform to deflectslightly relative to the roadway due to its flexibility. An installationwithout the foam would result in very poor performance due to theplatform being bonded to the roadway. Many of the requirements on thefoam are met by the internal foam discussed elsewhere in thespecification. Additional requirements are of ultra-violentinsensitivity and very durable against abrasion. Tough silicone foamrubbers in the 5-15 PSI range are ideal for this application althoughothers may be suitable. The foam must be thin to prevent pebbles andexcessive abrasion on the road surface and ideally less than 0.15-0.25inches. The foam must also be thick enough to create a low resistance toflexing and compression to allow for optimal scale performance. Minimumdimensions are in the range of 0.05 to 0.1 inches for highlycompressible materials. The preferred external foam is a 10 PSI siliconefoam rubber with a nominal ⅛ inch or 3 mm thickness and a pressuresensitive adhesive backing allowing it to be placed directly over theplatform and extending down to the base also covering the gap betweenthe platform and base.

The scales are typically placed in the roadway or runway and exposed toweather elements including rain, snow, ice and sleet. The substratecould be constructed using asphalt, cement, steel, gravel or anycombination thereof and generally porous to liquids and or continuouslysaturated. In cold weather regions where salt is used to melt snow andice or near the shoreline, the potential for problems is more acute dueto the corrosive nature of saltwater and the damage it may cause to theload cells, wires and electronics. The potting gel creates a barrier toprotect the sensitive elements from external liquid. In order tomaintain the performance, the gel must have a very low durometertypically measured on the Shore 00 scale. Alternatively, the gels may bequantified with a probe and measuring the force to insert probe to apredetermined depth. Suitable gels are commonly termed reenterable gelsin that they allow entry of a tool and reseal themselves. The gels mustalso have high resistivity and insulation values as well as maintainingthe flexibility at cold temperatures commonly specified at −40 degreesCelsius. Silicone gels that meet these specifications are available.There are newer polyurethane and epoxy gels that may be suitable in someapplications.

An alternative to potting the scales is to use a hermetic design. Inthis embodiment, the base and platform are welded together with aflexible accordion-like section between them. Alternatively, anextrusion is formed with thin walls and further machining steps aretaken to ensure side wall flexibility. The load cells are pushed in fromthe end of the assembly and the end cap is welded to the assembly. Theelectrical connection is made through a feed thru which consists of ametal ring filled with glass and wires penetrating the glass.

FIGS. 51-62 show a fourth alternative embodiment of the high speed,weigh in motion strip scale 400 of the invention. Scale 400 has asubstantially similar structure and function to that of scales 100 and200 described above, except that it has an additional lower (first)checking plate or flexure 450 disposed below the central spacer 423, andthe checking plate 450 is disposed above an additional lower sidespacers 451. Scale 400 is also elongated, thin and low profile. It has abottom base assembly 411, several load cells 412, and a top platform413. Referring in particular to FIGS. 51, 56 and 61, the load cells 412are disposed a predetermined distance apart, along the centrallongitudinal axis of the base assembly 411. Base sides 420 a/b areconnected to the base member 421 along its sides a/b, longitudinally ontop of the spacers 451. End plates 422 are connected at the ends a/b ofthe base member 421. A center (side loading) strap 423 is disposed overthe load cells 412. A second 424 and a third 425 checking plate/flexureare disposed over the center strap 423. Second spacers 426 a, b and c(side a, center b and side c) are disposed on top of the third checkingplate 425. As is best shown in FIGS. 51 and 61, end straps 427 a/b aredisposed at the ends, over flexure 425 and connected via screws orbolts. Fourth and fifth checking plates/flexures 428 and 429 aredisposed on top of the second spacers 426, respectively. Third spacers432 a, b and c (side loading strap 1, center platform spacer and sideloading strap 2) are disposed over the fifth flexure 429. And platform413 is disposed over the third spacer set 432. These elements havepredetermined dimensions and are constructed and arranged as shown toprovide an optimum balance between load sensing and resistance to sideloading, particularly for high speed weighing of vehicles traveling overa roadway in which the scale is embedded. As is best shown in FIGS. 51and 62, each load cell 412 has a pair of washers 433 a/b centrallydisposed on its top, and a top load button and cap 434 a/b is disposedon the washers 433 for engagement with the center spacer 423. The loadcells 412 are connected to the base member 421 via, centrally aligneddownwardly oriented screws 440. As is best shown in FIGS. 51 and 62, thetop platform 413 is connected down to central side loading strap 423,second and third checking plates 424/5, the middle second spacer 426 b,fourth and fifth checking plates 428/9, and the platform spacer 423 b byupwardly oriented screws 441 arranged along the central longitudinalaxis of the scale 400. Elements 432, 428/9, 426, 424/5, 420, 450 and 451are connected to the base 421 at each side a/b of the scale 400 bydownwardly oriented screws 442

FIGS. 52-59 show embodiments of the load cell for use with theembodiments of the scale of the invention described above. FIGS. 52-55show a first embodiment of a load cell 112. The load cell 112 has acylindrical, disc shaped configuration. It may be used in the stripscale embodiments shown in FIGS. 13-38 and 51. Referring to FIGS. 56-59show a second embodiment of the load cell 12 has a generally rectangularconfiguration with a relatively long length and a relatively thin heightor thickness, or low profile. Load cell 12 is a single ended, shear beamtype load cell. It may be used in the strip scale embodiments shown inFIGS. 1-12 and 39-50.

The load cells shown in FIGS. 52-59 are associated with strain gauges asis generally known in the art. on the load cells. The process of gaugingprocess involves first sandblasting the load cell (for example load cell12, 121, 500 or 600, then dipping it in alcohol as an initial cleaning.After dipping, the load cell is sprayed with alcohol as a rinsecleaning. After rinsing, gages are labeled and oriented at predeterminedlocations on the load cell. A predetermined amount of adhesive isapplied to bond the gages to the load cell. Care should be exercised toavoid contaminating material or debris that may be present on the gageduring gluing. Preferably, the gage should be inspected undermagnification after glue is applied. Glue should not be placed on thetop of the solder pads. Next, the assembly is cured, for example viaheat in an oven. After curing, the resistance values of each gage arerecorded. After verification of proper resistance values, wires areconnected to the gages. After wiring, a coating is applied to the gages.

FIGS. 60-63 show fifth alternative embodiment of a strip scale 510 ofthe present invention. The strip scale 510 has a low profile. It may beplaced on a surface such as a road or a floor, either directly orindirectly as part of a larger weighing system. The strip scale 510 maybe used for static weighing, but it is ideally suited for in motionweighing of vehicles or craft such as cars, trucks, aircraft, boats andother consumer, commercial, industrial, municipal or military articlesor apparatus. The scale 510 is relatively long compared to known scalesand very low profile. As is best shown in FIGS. 62 and 63, the scale 10basically comprises a bottom base 511, a load cell 512, an intermediarytop plate 513, and a top platform 514.

The base 511 is placed on a support surface (See FIG. 119 for example).The load cell 512 is placed on the top surface of the base 511. The topplate 513 is placed on the base 511, over the load cell 512. Pins 515are placed (end to end) in slots 516 disposed on the top surface of thetop plate 513. Platform 514 is placed over the top plate 513. Top, innerfastening screws 517 are oriented through apertures 518 a and 158 b(threaded) of the platform 514 and top plate 13 respectively to connectthe platform 514 to the top plate 513. Lower, outer fastening screws 519are oriented through apertures 520 a and 520 b (threaded) of the topplate 513 and base 511 respectively to connect the top plate 13 to thebase 511.

FIGS. 64-81 show several embodiments of the load cell for use with theembodiments of the scale of the invention. Referring to FIGS. 64-66,first embodiment of the load cell 512 has a generally rectangularconfiguration with a relatively long length and a relatively thin heightor thickness, or low profile. The load cell 512 has a body portion 571,a pair of legs 572 a and 572 b extending downwardly from the edges ofthe body 570, and a central base rail 573 extending upwardly from thecenter of the body 570. A foot 34 is disposed downwardly from each leg32. A top rail 35 extends upwardly from the center of the base rail 573.FIGS. 67-76 show second, third and fourth load cell structures 570′,570″ and 570′″ that are substantially similar to the geometry of loadcell 570, but have particular dimensions which differ. FIGS. 77-81 showsa fifth alternative embodiment of a low profile, elongated load cell 512⁴ which has a pair of slots 58 disposed at one end.

FIGS. 82-85 show methods and arrangements of strain gauges on the loadcells 512. FIG. 82 is a top view of one embodiment of a gauging patternon a load cell 512, for example a sixth embodiment of a load cell 512 ⁵.Load cell 512 ⁵ has a structure which is similar to that of load cells512 to 512′″, but does not have a bottom foot, or a top central baserail. FIG. 83 is a bottom view of the gauging pattern shown in FIG. 23.FIG. 84 is an end diagram for an example process of gauging a seventhembodiment of the load cell 512 ⁷ of the present invention. The loadcell 512 ⁷ has a similar structure to that of load cell 512, except thatit also has a top central base rail. FIGS. 85A and B are compressionside and tension side view of the gauging process of FIG. 25 on loadcell 512 ⁷. This embodiment of the process of gauging process involvesfirst sandblasting the load cell 512 ⁷, then dipping it in alcohol as aninitial cleaning. After dipping, the load cell 512 ⁷ is sprayed withalcohol as a rinse cleaning. After rinsing, gages labeled C1, C2, T1 andT2 are oriented at predetermined locations on the load cell 512 ⁷, forexample the locations shown in FIGS. 25 and 26. A predetermined amountof adhesive is applied to bond the gages to the load cell 512 ⁷. Careshould be exercised to avoid contaminating material or debris that maybe present on the gage during gluing. Preferably, the gage should beinspected under magnification after glue is applied. Glue should not beplaced on the top of the solder pads. Next, the assembly is cured, forexample via heat in an oven. After curing, the resistance values of eachgage are recorded. After verification of proper resistance values, wiresare connected to the gages. After wiring, coat M is applied to thegages.

FIGS. 86-88 show an embodiment of the base 511. The base 511 also has anelongated rectangular configuration. It has a flat bottom surface 550.Rails 551 a and 551 b are disposed along the sides of the base 511,extending upwardly. Threaded apertures 520 b are disposed in the rails551. Apertures 520 b are aligned with outer apertures 520 a of the topplate 513.

FIGS. 89-91 show an embodiment of the platform 514. The platform 514also has an elongated rectangular configuration. It has top and bottomflat surfaces. Apertures 518 a are disposed in the platform 514 intandem rows that, in a operative position, align with the innerapertures 518 b of the top plate 513.

And FIGS. 92-95 show an embodiment of the top plate 513. The top plate513 also has an elongated rectangular configuration. Referring to FIG.92, the top surface 570 of the plate 513 has the elongated slots 516 aand 516 b disposed toward the center of the plate 513 in parallel witheach other. The slots 516 a/b have a curvilinear shape that complementsthe outside diameter of the pins 14. The apertures 518 b are disposed inthe slots 516. Apertures 520 a are disposed in rows along the edges ofthe plate 513. Referring to FIGS. 93 and 95, the bottom surface 571 ofthe plate has four (4) slots 572 a-d running lengthwise orlongitudinally and parallel to each other.

FIGS. 96-99 show sixth alternative embodiment of the strip scale 680.The scale 680 has a substantially longer length than that of scale 610.Scale 680 has a unitary base 681, a pair of load cells 682 a and 682 b,a unitary top plate 683 and a unitary platform 684.

FIGS. 100-116 show a seventh alternative embodiment of the elongated,low profile strip scale 790 of the present invention. Referring first toFIGS. 100-109, scale 790 comprises a base 791, a plurality of load cells792 a-f, first side spacers 793 a/b, a first central spacer 793 c, afirst checking plate 794, second spacers 795 a-c, a second checkingplate 796, third spacers 797 a-c, and a top platform 798. Load cells 792are connected to the base preferably via screws 799, which furtherconnect on the top of the load cells to a load button 700 through one ormore washers 701 a/b. Details of the load cell 792 are shown in FIGS.110-116. This load cell 792 may also be used in the scale embodiments ofFIGS. 13-38 and 51.

FIGS. 117-119 show an embodiment of a system 850 including a pair ofstrip scales 810 a and 810 b disposed in a roadway 851 and orientedperpendicular to the direction of traffic such that a vehicle, forexample a truck 152 rolls over at least one scale 810. The scales 810a/b may be embedded into the roadway 151, either during initialconstruction of the roadway 851 or as an add on later. FIG. 43 shows ameans of embedding the scale 810 in the roadway 851. The scales 810 a/bare disposed a predetermined distance apart. The platform 814 of thescale 810 may be disposed above the top surface of the roadway 851 sothat it comes into direct contact with a load (i.e. a vehicle 852) or apredetermined distance below the surface so that intermediate materialtransfers force thereto. The scales 810 are communicatively connected toan electronic control system (not shown).

FIGS. 120-126 show another embodiment of the scale 900. The scale 900has a base 901, a plurality of load cells (not shown), and a platform903. Load cells may be used and arranged as shown in connection withscale 300 described above. A pair of internal foam members 904 and 905are disposed between the base 901 and the platform 903. The base 901 haslateral flanges 910 and slots/undercuts 911. The flanges 910 facilitatesecure holding of the scale in place in a roadway embedding slot. Theslots 911 also facilitate securement be accepting grout or otherembedding materials. FIGS. 127-132 show alternative flange and slotgeometries. External foam members 912 are disposed lengthwise. An epoxycoating 930 is preferably applied during installation embedding thescale 900 in a roadway. Grooves 940 are preferably made in the platform903. Most preferably, the grooves 940 are configured in a diamond-shapedconfiguration best shown in FIG. 121. Further, the grooves 940 arepreferably made in a dovetail geometry best shown in FIG. 126. Thehorizontal (diamond) and vertical (dovetail) configuration of thegrooves 940 facilitate optimum adhesion of the epoxy coating 930. FIG.133 shows an alternative embodiment of a platform 950 with downwardlyextended flanges 951 a/b for increased strength and water proofing.

The scales shown and described above disclose load cells which aremechanically fastened to the base and platform using bolts or screws.Optionally, the load cells may be used which are not fastened to thebase and/or the platform. Free floating load cells tend to have less offaxis loading and hence better performance. Shims made of suitable metalor plastic may be used to keep the load cells in the correct locations.This is viable and may increase performance if using disc type loadcells, for example FIGS. 52-55, FIGS. 110-115 or double ended shear beamload cells. Less constrained load cells allow for the use of a muchthinner base and slightly thinner platform. The base can be thinnerbecause there is no torque on the base. The platform may be thinnerbecause the load cells are less susceptible to flexing of the platform.Platform flexing creates off axis loading on! the load cells. The resultis a lower height scale that is easier to place in the roadway requiringless cutting, jack hammering and removal of roadway to create the slotfor the scales. Using steel for the base and platform also potentiallyreduces the height of the scale.

The platforms used in the scales are preferably sandable to create asurface flush with the roadway. Epoxy or polyurethane with a silica sandfiller makes a good platform finish. The platform is durable againsthigh vehicle traffic and sandable. The epoxy may also be directlyapplied to the platform using its adhesive qualities to bond to aluminumor steel finish. Alternatively, several plastics or fiberglass may besuitable for the platform finish. The plastic must have high impactresistance, ultra violet resistance, and excellent wear qualities. Inone embodiment, a 0.5 inch thick piece of fiberglass is bonded to theplatform. The bonding may be mechanical fastening, a spray on or brushon adhesive, or double sided tape or a combination of the above. Asuitable tape is 3M's VHB line of tape that is used in constructionreplacing screws and rivets.

The base and platforms disclosed herein may be made of the samematerial. Suitable materials include steel, particularly stainlesssteel, and aluminum, most particularly 6061 aluminum. The teachings ofthis invention about internal and external sealing foam, pottingcompounds, scale installation techniques, load cell electronics, andload cell gauging are generally applicable to substantially all of thescale embodiments disclosed. Although the scales of the invention areshown in connection with strain-gauge type load cells, it is within thepurview of the invention that piezoelectric type load cells may be usedeffectively.

The embodiments above are chosen, described and illustrated so thatpersons skilled in the art will be able to understand the invention andthe manner and process of making and using it. The descriptions and theaccompanying drawings should be interpreted in the illustrative and notthe exhaustive or limited sense. The invention is not intended to belimited to the exact forms disclosed. While the application attempts todisclose all of the embodiments of the invention that are reasonablyforeseeable, there may be unforeseeable insubstantial modifications thatremain as equivalents. It should be understood by persons skilled in theart that there may be other embodiments than those disclosed which fallwithin the scope of the invention as defined by the claims. Where aclaim, if any, is expressed as a means or step for performing aspecified function it is intended that such claim be construed to coverthe corresponding structure, material, or acts described in thespecification and equivalents thereof, including both structuralequivalents and equivalent structures, material-based equivalents andequivalent materials, and act-based equivalents and equivalent acts.

The invention claimed is:
 1. A scale comprising, a base for placement ona surface, the base having a strip-like configuration, at least two loadcells communicatively connected to the base and arranged in tandem withrespect to the base, and a platform disposed over the base, the platformbeing communicatively connected to the at least two load cells.
 2. Thescale of claim 1, for use in electronic, in-motion, high speed weighingof vehicles or cargo passing over the scale.
 3. The scale of claim 1,wherein the base placement surface is a floor or road, or a componentthereof.
 4. The scale of claim 3, wherein the base is embedded in thefloor, road, or component thereof.
 5. The scale of claim 1, wherein thestrip-like configuration of the scale is elongated, thin and 2.0-6.0inches (5.08-15.24 cm) wide, and 20.0-78.7 inches (0.5-2.0 meters) long.6. The scale of claim 1, wherein the strip-like configuration of thescale is elongate and thin, and wherein the scale has a length that isat least three (3) times longer than it is wide.
 7. The scale of claim1, wherein the strip-like configuration of the scale is elongated andthin, approximately 20.0 to 26.0 inches long and 3.41 inches wide. 8.The scale of claim 1, wherein the strip-like configuration of the scaleis elongated and thin, approximately 68.70 to 70.50 inches long and 3.41inches wide.
 9. The scale of claim 7 or 8, wherein the scale strip-likeconfiguration of the scale is low profile, approximately 1.465 to 1.475inches high.
 10. The scale of claim 1, wherein the base is constructedof a unitary piece of material, the base having a recess on a topsurface, a load cell being disposed in each recess.
 11. The scale ofclaim 1, wherein the base is constructed of a bottom plate member and aside plate member fixedly disposed on each longitudinal edge of thebottom plate member and defining a central recess area in which the atleast two load cells are disposed.
 12. The scale of claim 10, whereinthe base further comprises an end plate member fixedly disposed at eachend of the bottom plate member, enclosing the central recess area. 13.The scale of claim 1, wherein there are six (6) load cells, arranged intandem, in-line with each other.
 14. The scale of claim 1, wherein eachload cell is a shear beam type load cell.
 15. The scale of claim 1,wherein each load cell is a cylindrical, disc load cell.
 16. The scaleof claim 1, wherein the load cells are fixedly connected to the base.17. The scale of claim 16, wherein the load cells are fixedly connectedto the platform.
 18. The scale of claim 1, wherein the platform hashorizontal dimensions substantially coextensive with the horizontaldimensions of the base.
 19. The scale of claim 1, wherein the platformhas a bar-like configuration with a thickness approximately equivalentto its width.
 20. The scale of claim 1, wherein the platform has aplate-like configuration with a thickness substantially less than itswidth.
 21. The scale of claim 1, further comprising at least onechecking plate is disposed between the load cells and the platform. 22.The scale of claim 21, wherein there are plural checking plates.
 23. Thescale of claim 21 further comprising at least one spacer disposedbetween each pair of checking plates.
 24. The scale of claim 21, whereinthe checking plates are fixedly connected to the platform.
 25. The scaleof claim 1, further comprising an internal sealing member and anexternal sealing member.
 26. The scale of claim 1, wherein: a. the baseis constructed of a unitary piece of material, the base having a recesson a top surface, a load cell being disposed in each recess; b. eachload cell is a shear beam type load cell, fixedly connected to the baseand to the platform; and c. the platform has a bar-like configurationwith a thickness approximately equivalent to its width.
 27. The scale ofclaim 1, wherein: a. the base is constructed of a bottom plate memberand a side plate member fixedly disposed on each longitudinal edge ofthe bottom plate member and defining a central recess area in which theat least two load cells are disposed; b. the base further comprises anend plate member fixedly disposed at each end of the bottom platemember, enclosing the central recess area; c. each load cell is acylindrical, disc load cell, fixedly connected to the base; d. theplatform has a plate-like configuration with a thickness substantiallyless than its width; and e. the scale further comprises a plurality ofchecking plates disposed between the load cells and the platform, atleast 2 checking plates being directly connected to each other.
 28. Thescale of claim 1, wherein: a. the base is constructed of a bottom platemember and a side plate member fixedly disposed on each longitudinaledge of the bottom plate member and defining a central recess area inwhich the at least two load cells are disposed; b. the base furthercomprises an end plate member fixedly disposed at each end of the bottomplate member, enclosing the central recess area; c. each load cell is acylindrical, disc load cell, fixedly connected to the base; d. theplatform has a plate-like configuration with a thickness substantiallyless than its width; and e. the scale further comprises a plurality ofchecking plates disposed between the load cells and the platform, atleast two checking plates having spacers disposed between each other.29. The scale of claim 1, wherein: a. the base is constructed of aunitary piece of material, the base having a recess on a top surface, aload cell being disposed in each recess; b. each load cell is a shearbeam type load cell, fixedly connected to the base and to the platform;c. further comprising at least one checking plate disposed between theload cells and the platform, the checking plate having an aperturesurrounding each load cell; and d. the platform has a bar-likeconfiguration with a thickness approximately equivalent to its width.30. The scale of claim 1, wherein: a. the base is constructed of abottom plate member and a side plate member fixedly disposed on eachlongitudinal edge of the bottom plate member and defining a centralrecess area in which the at least two load cells are disposed; b. thebase further comprises an end plate member fixedly disposed at each endof the bottom plate member, enclosing the central recess area; c. eachload cell is a cylindrical, disc load cell, fixedly connected to thebase; d. the platform has a plate-like configuration with a thicknesssubstantially less than its width; and e. the scale further comprises aplurality of checking plates disposed between the load cells and theplatform, at least one checking plate having an aperture surroundingeach load cell.
 31. An electronic strip scale for use in in-motionweighing of vehicles or cargo passing over the scale, the strip scalehaving an elongated, thin geometry with a length of between 20.0-78.7inches (0.5-2.0 meters), a width approximately 2.0-6.0 inches(5.08-15.24 cm) and a height approximately 1.465 to 1.475 inches, thestrip scale being adapted to be embedded into a road, floor or the like,comprising: a. a base for placement on a surface, the base having astrip-like configuration, b. six load cells communicatively connected tothe base and arranged in tandem with respect to the base, and c. aplatform disposed over the base, the platform being communicativelyconnected to the at least two load cells.
 32. A method of weighingvehicles or cargo moving over a surface while the vehicles or cargo aremoving: a. providing an electronic strip scale having an elongated, thingeometry, comprising: i. a base for placement on a surface, the basehaving a strip-like configuration, ii. six load cells communicativelyconnected to the base and arranged in tandem with respect to the base,and iii. a platform disposed over the base, the platform beingcommunicatively connected to the at least two load cells; b. embeddingthe strip scale in the surface, whereby a predetermined portion of theplatform is exposed to sense the weight of the vehicle or cargo passingover the strip scale; c. passing vehicles or cargo over the surface andthe strip scale; and d. actuating the strip scale and sensing a weight.